Railway mulls extra charges, discounts

The different zones have also proposed that the railways go for premium charges (10 to 20 per cent additional) for peak days and festival seasons

The Indian Railways board is mulling over a dynamic pricing model in which premium charges will be applied during festivals such as Diwali, Durga Puja and discounts will be offered for travelling in odd-hours. The railway board has also proposed discounts on choosing a less popular route/train or one having no pantry services.

During a meeting with senior officials last week, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, as well as the board, underlined the need for flexible dynamic-pricing in order to offer competitive fares vis-a-vis airlines.

Three railway zones — the eastern, the western and the west-central — have prepared presentations, suggesting ways to